2018 Premier Pony Series gets underway at the Meadows

A busy weekend was had at The Meadows recently with the Premier Pony Series kicking off at the Oxford Island Embankment centre.

Saturday, April 28, saw the first leg in Ulster of the new ‘Future Champions Series’. In the 128 Under 10’s qualifier it was Mullingar native, Alanna Fagan with her very reliable Derraveragh Two Tone that stopped the clock in the fastest time to secure the first red ribbon of the day.

Sunday 29th saw the turn of the Premier ponies, as The Meadows played host to the first of the Coolmore Stud sponsored events.

The 128 ponies dominated the day, with many displays of talent. In the Under 10’s section many of the combinations recording a faultless round in the first round. 17 combinations made it through to the second round of the three round competition, however not to be unnerved by British course designer, Mark McGowan, 12 of these went onto round three, the Jump Off.

After a quick course change, it was time for the 128 1.10m Pony Premier, sponsored by Coolmore Stud, again after going three gruelling rounds, seven combinations made it to the jump off. Stopping the clock in 31.26 was Aine Shortall with Anne Derwin’s Toorboy Tommy’.

Winning the 138 1.20m, ‘Sligo Lux To Queeney’ owned by Coolmore Showjumping and rode by Rhys Williams stopped the clock after a fantastic round in 32.89, who took the winning rosette ahead of Aine Shortall with ‘Ruby Brown’ just a few seconds behind.

The 148 1.30m, not only was the first leg of the 2018 Pony Premier Tour but was also part of the International Viewing weekend. Under the watchful eye of selector and HSI Pony Chef d’equipe Gary Marshall. Only one rider out of 28 made it through without penalty. Remaining faultless in a very technical course, which tested both pony and athlete to the max, it was Orla Duffy who was the deserved winner of the 148 Premier title.